CHIEF APOSTLE JEAN-LUC SCHNEIDER HAS RETIRED AND LEFT US WITH A MESSAGE: “LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOUR AS YOURSELF"

Our hearts are filled with gratitude as we reflect on the faithful ministry of our beloved retired Chief Apostle, Jean-Luc Schneider. He retired on 24th May 2026 in a Pentecost divine service in Cape town South Africa after ordaining Helge Mutschler as the new Chief Apostle. This is a moment of appreciation, remembrance, and thanksgiving to God for a servant who dedicated his life fully to the work of the Lord and to the care of His people throughout the world.

Leadership in the Church of Christ is not merely an office or title; it is a calling of service, sacrifice, and love. During his years of ministry as Chief Apostle, we witnessed in him a shepherd who carried this calling with humility and devotion. He led not only through instruction and guidance, but through personal example. Through his life and conduct, we saw a servant of God who walked with faith, sincerity, and compassion.

From the day he assumed the ministry in 2013, Chief Apostle Schneider embraced his responsibility with a deep awareness of its significance. Yet despite the weight of global leadership, he remained approachable and genuine. He possessed the remarkable gift of making people feel valued. Whether among large congregations or small communities, one could always recognize his fatherly concern and sincere love for souls.

Many of us will remember his sermons and teachings with special appreciation. His messages often reminded us of what truly matters: faith in Jesus Christ, preparation for the return of the Lord, unity among believers, and living our faith in practical ways. He consistently encouraged us to remain close to God and to serve one another with love and humility. Through simple words, he conveyed profound spiritual truths that strengthened countless believers around the world.

What stands out particularly in his ministry is his unwavering emphasis on unity. In a world increasingly marked by division and uncertainty, he continually reminded us that we are one family in Christ. Under his leadership, believers from different nations, languages, and cultures experienced a stronger sense of togetherness. He helped us see beyond borders and differences and encouraged us to focus on our shared destination in faith.

As we now accompany him into retirement, we do so with mixed emotions. There is joy and gratitude for a ministry richly blessed by God, yet there is also emotion because parting from a beloved spiritual leader is never easy. However, retirement does not bring an end to the impact of a faithful ministry. The blessings of his work will continue to live in the hearts of those he served.

On behalf of many grateful believers, we say thank you. Thank you for your sacrifices, your prayers, your guidance, and your unwavering dedication to the work of God. Thank you for walking before us as a faithful example.

At the same time, as one chapter concludes, another begins. With hearts full of faith and hope, we warmly welcome our new Chief Apostle, Helge Mutschler. We receive him with love, confidence, and prayerful support as he assumes this sacred responsibility. We believe that God, who guides His Church, has prepared and appointed him for this important task. We assure him of our prayers, our unity, and our willingness to continue walking together on the path of faith.

May God richly bless our retired Chief Apostle and his family in this new chapter of life. And may He grant our new Chief Apostle wisdom, strength, and abundant grace as he leads the bride of Christ into the future. We thank God for His guidance, His faithfulness, and for the blessings He continually bestows upon His Church.

From the desk of the District Apostle

New Apostolic Church, East Africa

DAA21